Introduction
Cats are animals that often behave in ways that puzzle the most dedicated pet owners. One strange behaviour that many cat owners have noticed is their feline’s desire to be with them in the bathroom, sometimes even acting as a guardian while they use the facilities.
Why does my cat guard me when I pee? While this behaviour may appear strange or funny, it stems from a mix of instinct, affection and routine.
This article delves into the captivating world of cat behaviour to unravel why your cat accompanies you during bathroom breaks, exploring everything from instincts to bonding.
Table of Contents
9 Reasons About Why Does My Cat Guard Me When I Pee?
1. Territorial Behaviour
Cats have an inclination towards being creatures. So when your feline friend accompanies you into the bathroom, it’s actually expressing its sense of ownership. Like the rest of your home, the bathroom falls within their domain.
By sticking to you in that space, your cat is reaffirming its control over the area. In a way, over you too.
Read More Interesting Topics About Cats Behaviour
2. Seeking Affection and Attention
At home, it’s not easy to get attention. However, your cat finds the bathroom to be a place where distractions are minimal. They take this chance to seek your affection and attention without any hindrance.
This behaviour shows just how strong the bond is between you and your pet, emphasising their need for interaction and companionship.
3. Comfort and Curiosity
Cats are curious by nature, and the bathroom is a place of many wonders for them. The sound of running water, the movement of the shower curtain, and various objects to explore make it a source of endless fascination.
Additionally, your presence in the bathroom creates a comforting environment for this exploration, giving them the confidence to satisfy their curiosity.
4. Fear of Separation Anxiety
While cats are often perceived as animals, they can form connections with their owners and sometimes experience separation anxiety.
When they follow you into the bathroom and keep an eye on you, it could be a manifestation of this anxiety, as the thought of being away from you even for a brief period can make them feel uneasy.
5. Routine and Habit Formation
Cats are known for being creatures that thrive on routine, as it gives them a sense of security. If your cat has gotten used to joining you in the bathroom, this becomes part of their schedule.
As time goes on, this behaviour becomes ingrained. Your cat continues doing it simply because it has become an expected part of their day.
6. Protective Instincts
Although cats may not exhibit the same level of protectiveness as dogs, they do have a sense of guarding their territory and their loved ones.
When a cat guards you in the bathroom, it could be a manifestation of these instincts, making sure you feel secure during what they perceive as a time.
7. Interest in Running Water
Cats often have a fascination with flowing water, finding it more interesting than water in a bowl. The bathroom becomes a place for them as it provides outlets, like the sink, shower and even the toilet, to observe and engage with running water.
This curiosity may lead them to accompany you into the bathroom and attentively observe both you and the water.
8. Enjoyment of Cozy Spaces
Bathrooms are often enclosed spaces that cats seem to enjoy. The combination of warmth from a shower or bath, along with the defined area, makes the bathroom quite inviting for our friends.
When they accompany us in the bathroom, they do not provide company. I also appreciate the comfort and sense of security these spaces provide.
9. Social Bonding
For cats, companionship isn’t always about play or physical affection; simply being in the same space as you can strengthen your bond.
Guarding you while you’re in the bathroom is a form of social bonding, a way for them to express their affiliation and comfort with your presence.
When to Be Concerned About This Behavior
Although this kind of behaviour is usually harmless and can even be charming, there are times when it might indicate concern.
If your cat displays excessive neediness or shows signs of anxiety when you’re apart, it could indicate separation anxiety.
Furthermore, if your cat’s protective behaviour is accompanied by aggression towards others or extreme distress when they’re unable to follow you, it would be an idea to seek advice from a veterinarian or a feline behaviour specialist.
3 Ways to Keep Your Cats Away From the Bathroom
Here are some tips to help keep your cat entertained and comfortable while you’re in the bathroom;
1. Provide Distractions: Give your cat some engaging toys or puzzles to play with. This can help redirect their attention and reduce their desire to follow you.
2. Training: Help your cat get used to spending time with you by starting with short periods of separation and gradually increasing the duration. Use reinforcement like treats or praise to reward them for staying calm when they’re apart from you.
3. Create a Cozy Environment: Make sure your cat has an inviting space of their own where they feel safe when you’re not around. This could include access to windows for bird watching and their favourite toys nearby.
Remember, every cat is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for your friend.
Conclusion: Why Does My Cat Guard Me When I Pee?
In conclusion, “Why does my cat guard me when I pee?” It’s not some kind of behavior; it’s actually your cat’s way of expressing love and curiosity. Cats are creatures. Consider you a part of their territory. That’s why they often seek attention when you’re in the bathroom. Their fascination with the sights and sounds of the bathroom, combined with their dislike for being separated from you and their fondness for routines, leads them to join you in. This behaviour, though amusing, demonstrates the bond between you and your furry companion by showing their affection in a certain way.
FAQs: Why Does My Cat Guard Me When I Pee?
1. Why does my cat always follow me into the bathroom?
Cats often accompany their owners to the bathroom for various reasons. They are naturally created creatures, so they like to keep an eye on their surroundings. Additionally, cats are naturally curious.
Enjoy exploring spaces, which might explain their interest in the bathroom. Furthermore, cats seek attention from their owners. Find comfort in being close to them. The bathroom environment also offers stimuli, such as running water and cozy corners, that can capture a cat’s interest and engage their senses.
2. Is it normal for my cat to watch me while I use the toilet?
Absolutely, it’s completely normal. This is just your cat’s way of showing curiosity and their connection to you. Observing your actions is how they interact and make sense of things, while also making sure they have your attention in a moment when you’re relatively calm and not occupied with tasks.
3. Should I be worried if my cat guards me in the bathroom?
Usually, this kind of behaviour is not a cause for concern. Just indicates that your cat is deeply bonded with you.
However, if your cat shows signs of stress, aggression or anxiety while exhibiting this behaviour (and if you or your cat are feeling uneasy), it could be an idea to seek advice from a veterinarian or an animal behaviourist to rule out any underlying problems.
4. How can I discourage my cat from following me into the bathroom without upsetting them?
You can discourage this behaviour by redirecting your cat out of the bathroom and offering them ways to have fun and feel comfortable, like toys, puzzles or a cozy bed in a different room. Teaching your cat to adapt to separations can also be beneficial. It’s important to use reinforcement and reward them when they remain calm and entertained outside the bathroom.
5. Can this behaviour be a sign of separation anxiety in cats?
Yes, in some cases, the need to be near you constantly, including following you into the bathroom, can be a sign of separation anxiety, especially if accompanied by distress when you are apart. Signs of separation anxiety in cats include excessive vocalisation, destructive behaviour when alone, and following you obsessively.
